First person in UK dies with new Omicron variant of coronavirus

Boris Johnson made the announcement during a visit to a vaccination clinic near Paddington, in west London

First person in UK dies with new Omicron variant of coronavirus Getty Images

At least one person in the UK has died with the Omicron variant of Covid-19, Boris Johnson has said.

Speaking during a visit to a vaccination clinic near Paddington in west London, the Prime Minister said: “Sadly, yes, Omicron is producing hospitalisations and sadly at least one patient has been confirmed to have died with Omicron.

“So I think the idea that this is somehow a milder version of the virus, I think that’s something we need to set on one side and just recognise the sheer pace at which it accelerates through the population. So the best thing we can do is all get our boosters.”

The latest statistics show 38 more Omicron cases have been confirmed in Scotland, taking the total to 159.

There were 4002 coronavirus cases in total reported on Sunday, with no new deaths.

First Minister Nicola Sturgeon announced changes to Scotland’s isolation rules last week amid the rapid spread of the new variant of the virus.

She said the household contacts of any person who tests positive for Covid should now isolate for ten days.

STV News is now on WhatsApp

Get all the latest news from around the country

Follow STV News
Follow STV News on WhatsApp

Scan the QR code on your mobile device for all the latest news from around the country

WhatsApp channel QR Code